INTRO Here's my semi-annual exercise to see if I remember why I own the stocks I own, and so I can check back and see if their stories have changed. I post in case it helps others too.

Real Goods Solar
RSOL (market cap $0.047B)

Real Goods Solar is mostly a service company that installs solar energy systems in a few western states, but it also hearkens back to its DIY roots via its retail catalog. Its history is long and involves mergers and spin-offs, so now it is an old company but a new spin-off largely owned by Gaiam (GAIA, where I am also a shareholder).

They are profitable and experiencing good revenue growth. One concern is the reliance on customer's government subsidies, but the demand, the technology, and the market are progressing to the point where subsidies may not be an issue; except for a temporary blip if they ever go away.

I continue to HOLD, and may buy more, possibly by selling some GAIA. Of the two, I better understand Real Goods' strategy.

DISCLOSURE LTBH by style but have only held shares since the mid-2008 IPO.